Tips for One-on-One Visits with Seniors

It is not uncommon for seniors living in assisted-living facilities to lack mental stimulation and social contact.

This is especially true for people who are loners by nature or those who have lived on their own fora long period of time. They may choose to stay in their rooms all day and decline to participate inprogrammed activities.

One-on-One visits for the ElderlyRecreation Therapists often use one-on-one visits to respond to the needs of those who avoid social settings. There are many enjoyable games and activities that can keep minds and bodies strong and active.

One-on-one visits provide caregivers with the opportunity to develop rapport and trust with individuals, which is so important in residential care settings.

How to Make the Most of a One-on-One Visit:Put Yourself in Their ShoesPrepare yourself mentally beforehand by spending a few minutes thinking about the person; try to put yourself in their shoes. Take a look at their 'Profile' form and see if there are hobbies or interests you can talk about.

Early Morning is BestSchedule the visit for early in the morning when residents are more alert. Alternatively, visit mid afternoon after lunch and rest time. Make them feel special by sending a note: "Hi Linda, if it suitsyou, I will be coming by tomorrow for a chat and a cup of tea!"

Eye Contact is ImportantOn arrival, look them in the eyes and give them a hug. Set the right tone with a warm greeting and then sit down in front of the resident at eye level.

Use PropsIf you need to, bring a 'helping hand' such as a flower, some seasonal fruit, some interesting media headlines, or a home baked biscuit. Props can trigger reminiscing and help start a conversation.

Reduce Background NoiseTurn off the TV and radio and close the door if loud noises are coming through.

Pay Attention to Body LanguagePay attention to the resident's body language as well as your own. If you are wringing your hands or looking at the clock, it sends a message that you don't want to be there. On the other hand if they are nodding off to sleep or avoiding eye contact, make an excuse and come back when the resident is more receptive.

A Change of Scenery can be a Good ThingIf your meetings are always in the bedroom, try a change of scenery. A veranda or garden setting are good alternatives.

12 Ideas for One-on-One Visits with the Elderly1. Read AloudRead aloud something funny such as a poem or a joke.

2. Play GamesPlay simple puzzles or board games together.

3. Enjoy TriviaBring along some trivia quizzes or word games.

4. Look Through Photo AlbumsLook through a family photo album together or make a scrapbook album together.

5. Story TellingAsk them to tell you a story about their life. Suggest school life, childhood friends, sports, siblings, their mother's cooking, and their pets.

6. Bring Along Magazines or Books of InterestFind out what sorts of things were of interest to them in the past; a fisherman may enjoy looking at pictures of fish and a quilter may enjoy looking at quilt magazines.

7. Show Interest in their Culture and BackgroundIf the resident comes from another country, get hold of a few quizzes or interesting facts about the country to talk about.